We stand, so to speak, on the cards he's dealt us.

What may be his little game, it ain't for us to say; but whatever it is, WE'RE IN IT.

Gentlemen and ladies, we'll drink Bob's health!" There was a somewhat sensational pause, followed by good-natured laughter and applause, in which Somers joined; yet not without a certain constraint that did not escape the quick sympathy of the shocked and unsmiling Miss Nevil.

It was with a feeling of relief that she caught the chaperoning eye of Mrs.Leyton, who was entreating her in the usual mysterious signal to the other ladies to rise and follow her.

When she reached the drawing-room, a little behind the others, she was somewhat surprised to observe that the stranger whom she had missed during the evening was approaching her with Mrs.Leyton.
"Mr.Rushbrook returned sooner than he expected, but unfortunately, as he always retires early, he has only time to say 'goodnight' to you before he goes." For an instant Grace Nevil was more angry than disconcerted.